DFLer, ex-state senator backs Norm Coleman

Former state Sen. Doug Johnson of Tower says that Coleman is the first Republican he's supported in more than 40 years.

Johnson says he's still planning to vote for Democrats Barack Obama, Jim Oberstar and the DFL-endorsed candidates for the Legislature.

Johnson ran for governor in a five-person DFL primary in 1998. He served in the Legislature for 32 years before retiring in 2002.

Johnson says that he's confident that Coleman can work with Democrats and Republicans alike to pursue legislation that benefits the Iron Range and the state. He says Coleman, a former Democrat, has been his friend for more than 20 years and that he trusts him.